Natural skincare is no longer a niche product – it's the standard. But while many women specifically seek out clean formulations, men often face the question: What does "natural" really mean? And is "vegan" automatically better?
The reality: "Natural" is not a protected term. Green packaging does not automatically mean green ingredients.
This guide shows you what really matters – and how to recognize marketing traps before you fall for them.
1. What “natural skincare” really means
In short: The term is not protected.
A product can call itself "natural" without actually containing any natural ingredients. It only becomes more reliable when independent certifications are involved – for example:
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BDIH
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NATRUE
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COSMOS Natural / COSMOS Organic
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Ecocert
These seals guarantee:
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no microplastics, silicones or PEGs
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no synthetic fragrances or harsh preservatives
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Focus on plant oils, waxes and extracts – ideally from organic farming
Important: "Natural" doesn't automatically mean "better." Essences or essential oils can quickly irritate sensitive or freshly shaved skin. While men's skin is thicker, it's also often more reactive.
2. Why men need special natural care
“Gentle” alone is not enough. Men’s skin has its own specific needs:
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Increased sebum production → Products must mattify without drying out
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Beard area → needs soothing, antibacterial agents
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Quick results → Nature must be formulated in a modern way, otherwise it will not be used.
Active ingredients that truly perform:
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Birch bark extract – anti-inflammatory, regenerative
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Witch hazel – soothes razor burn
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Plant-based squalane – light, non-greasy moisture
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Aloe Vera – immediate soothing after shaving or sports
3. Typical greenwashing traps – and how to recognize them
Many brands play on the term "natural" but deliver little substance. Beware of:
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Vague claims like "with natural ingredients" – often they contain only 1% natural ingredients.
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Terms like "clean beauty" or "nature inspired" without certification
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Green labels, but silicones, perfume or microplastics are in the top 5 of the INCI list.
Pro tip:
Check the ingredients.
If dimethicone, polyquaternium, perfume or mineral oil appear early on, it is not genuine natural cosmetics.
4. Genuine natural cosmetics – advantages & limitations
The advantages:
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Often better tolerated by sensitive skin
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More sustainable production & packaging
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Transparent wording – increasingly important for conscious buyers
The limits:
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Less of an "instant effect" – nature works, but takes time.
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Most sunscreens are mineral-based → can leave a slight white cast on dark skin
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Preservatives often contain alcohol → can irritate sensitive skin
Conclusion:
Natural skincare works – if it suits your skin type and routine.
5. Men, natural grooming and modern masculinity
Men's grooming has changed.
What used to smell like menthol shaving and alcoholic aftershave is now a well-thought-out skincare approach.
According to recent analyses, over 70% of men under 40 check ingredients before buying.
Serums, masks, oils – no longer just “women’s stuff”.
Natural grooming reflects a new form of masculinity:
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consciously
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self-responsibility
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quality-oriented
Bergamond & Birch combines plant-based active ingredients with modern performance – without clichés, without marketing fog.
Final thoughts: Natural skincare is not a trend – it's a standard.
Natural skincare does not mean "eco".
It means making a conscious decision:
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Trust genuine seals of approval.
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Understand the key ingredients
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Don't be blinded by green design.
Product recommendation:
Our CLARITÉ line is designed for deep pore cleansing, antibacterial action and a fresh skin feeling – ideal for impurities, oily areas or beard-related irritations.
100% vegan, free from microplastics and synthetic fragrances.
For real results, not green promises.
